Slipping through time, let’s journey back to a pivotal moment. It’s 1964. The New York World’s Fair is in full swing. Right here, before us, stands the New York State Pavillion, a beacon of optimism and innovation. Philip Johnson’s creation, a three-part marvel of concrete and steel, promised a glimpse into “The County Fair of the Future.” The New York State Pavillion was meant to showcase the Empire State’s prowess, a testament to its achievements on a shrinking globe.
The elliptical Tent of Tomorrow, with its vibrant Kalwall panels and record-breaking suspension roof, housed a Texaco-sponsored terrazzo map of New York State. Imagine roller skating across that vast, colorful map, the laughter and music echoing through the Tent. For a brief, shining moment, this was a reality. Christine and Bob Jelen, competitive skaters from Cleveland, transformed the New York State Pavillion into a roller rink, a quirky twist in its post-fair life. They saw the potential in this “modern ruin,” and for a few years, breathed new life into its walls.
Sadly, the vibrant roof panels are long gone, victims of time and neglect. But look closely. The red candy stripes, a labor of love by dedicated volunteers, still adorn the Tent. They’re a reminder of the Pavilion’s enduring appeal, a symbol of hope for its future. Those stripes evoke the original design, a carnivalesque touch envisioned by Philip Johnson.
Towering above us are the Astro-View towers. Imagine riding the “Sky Streak” capsule elevators, ascending to breathtaking panoramic views. The tallest, reaching 226 feet, was the highest structure at the Fair. From its observation deck, one could see the sprawling metropolis and the vast Atlantic. These towers, now silent sentinels, once buzzed with excited fairgoers, eager for a glimpse of the world from above.
The Theaterama, the third element of the New York State Pavillion, also played a significant role. It showcased a 360-degree film about New York State, its exterior adorned with pop art masterpieces by Warhol, Lichtenstein, and Rauschenberg. Today, this structure has found a new purpose as the Queens Theater, a vibrant performing arts center. It continues the Pavilion’s legacy of entertainment and cultural expression.
The New York State Pavillion has lived many lives. It has been a concert hall for rock legends, a roller rink, a film set, and even a temporary home for hazardous waste. Its story is one of ambition, innovation, decline, and the persistent hope for revival. Though a shadow of its former glory, the New York State Pavillion still stands, a poignant reminder of a bygone era’s dreams of the future. Its future remains uncertain, but its presence continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of human ingenuity and the enduring allure of “The County Fair of the Future.”